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• A list of authors can be found in the contributor index.

To browse a past monthly issue, Nov. 1995 to present:

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Microscopy UK Front Page
Micscape Magazine
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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This library contains material published in Micscape Magazine, the monthly magazine of Microscopy-UK, from November 1995 to date. The resources cover various aspects of the 'miniature world' whether microscopic or macroscopic, both natural and manmade, contributed by optical microscopy enthusiasts and naturalists. These are free resources offered by voluntary administrators and contributors. However, if any regular user is interested in making a small online contribution to help cover the Microscopy-UK / Micscape web site running costs, please click here to learn more. Thanks! Also see the affiliated magazines on the R.M. Cain website, 'Beyond Magazine' and 'Beyond for Kids', the latter which encourages youngsters to explore science. These magazines use cutting edge Web technology to present science, including microscopy, in both a fun and educational way.

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Articles for the beginner

 
• Overviews
• Why microscopy? Sep.96
• What is an amateur microscopist? - practising microscopy for the love of it Jan.98
• Introduction to microscopy - a suite of pages for the beginner with illustrated articles. Includes links to other Micscape articles. Sep.99
• Amateur Practical Microscopy Apr.96
• Getting started in microscopy - a down to earth look at the basic features of a good microscope, simple lighting and introductory booklets. Oct.99
• Start Out Where to get help Mar.96
• Microscopy links - a selection of links to microscopy web sites with a particular emphasis on those dealing with practical topics. Feb.02
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• The microscope buying and use
• Guidelines on buying a microscope Feb.97
• Microscopes - illustrated overview for the beginner on the types of microscope available and typical prices when bought new. May.07
• How I choose and buy microscopes -  tips and thoughts on this topic based on the author's own experiences. Jun.02
• Introduction to the optical microscope - the main parts explained Apr.99
• The compound microscope - a brief introduction - auseful overview showing the main components of the compound microscope and common lighting techniques. Jul03
• Getting started with a low power microscope - with presents in mind, tips on how to use the 20x monocular microscope frequently recommended as a first microscope for youngsters. Dec.05
• Let there be light - a down to earth look at the main microscopy lighting techniques and how to achieve them with simple equipment. Nov.99
• Draw through the Microscope No Camera needed! Feb 96.
• Understand Measurements and Scale in Microscopy Mar.96
• MMM - microscope micron measuring - a look at simple ways of measuring objects under the microscope and the problems of appreciating scale. Dec.99
• Introduction to quantitative microscopy, or how to measure diatoms with a ruler May.00
• A measuring method for microscopic organisms - a straightforward method for accurately measuring the size of microscopic organisms. Mar.02
• About microscopes, measurements and meters - an overview of measuring techniques for the microscope, plus a versatile method. Apr.02
• Refractive Index - a note for the beginner. Jan. 97
• Emergency kit of things to see or: What can I see with my new microscope? Dec.01
• Instruction booklets for microscopy, or the good old days and nostalgia Jul.02
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• Nature, pond life
• 'The smallest page on the web' - a stunning suite of pages illustrating some common microscopic aquatic organisms. Sep.98
• Pond Life Identification Kit - a simple illustrated guide to some major groups of small and microscopic pond life, with extensive links to Micscape contributors' articles. Dec.00
• Beginners tips on collecting and studying protozoa - with links to Micscape articles describing common types Oct.97
• Virtual pond dip Getting to know the commoner organisms Mar.97
• Pond-dipping Apr.96
• Stream Dipping - an introduction Jul.97
• Seasonal snapshots of nature throughout the year - monthly explorations of the world in close-up Nov.95 - Oct. 96
• Walks in the woods: Photographic wanderings in an English autumn - some attractive macro photographs taken with a Nikon Coolpix 4500. Nov.02
• Around the home
• Home in close-up TV / PC screen, hi-fi. Nov.96
• Home in close-up Quartz watch, electronic components, CCD chip, LCD screen. Jan.97
• Home in close-up Fabrics, onion skin and human skin Mar.97
• Home in close-up Coins, mouldy oranges, woodlouse, fairy flies - the world's tiniest insect? May.97
• Inside a computer hard disk drive - a macro' and microscopic tour to show some marvels of miniaturisation Mar.98
• Microscopy around the home: inkjet ingenuity - low power microscopy can help reveal how this miniature engineering marvel works. Jan.99
• Image of the month Mechanical watch - jewel and balance wheel. Jan.97
• Nature's little helpers - antibiotics and Brownian motion Nov.97
• Microscopy around the home - studying Brownian motion (complements above) Nov.97
• Three-dimensional photography through the Microscope - simple techniques described Oct.97
• Colour displays around the home in close-up - screens of TV, computer monitor, LCD's of laptop, digicam and PDA Dec.03

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Biology - general

 
• Speaking of cells - introduction to plant and animal cells Sep.00
• Human histology for amateur microscopists Aug.02
• Exploration of human brain tissue - the structures of brain tissue that can be observed on commercially prepared sections; illustrated with high resolution images. Oct.02
• Exploration of the human spinal cord - what can be seen and learnt of the spinal chord structure when studying prepared slides with different staining protocols. Apr.03
• Image of the month Fish tail of a Ruffe by DIC
• My cat's ovary - the microscopic features of a mammalian ovary. Apr.01
• Cilia- the microscopic beating hairs used by both single-celled and multicellular organisms are one of the wonders of nature. A fascinating look at their diversity and mode of action. Jun.99
• Amazing membranes - an annotated diagram of a typical cell to appreciate the various membranes. Apr.02
• Blood and Blood diseases - Part 1 of mini-series Nov.95
• COL's renditioning of blood - circular oblique illumination gives striking images. May04
• Eyes- the microscopic structure of eyes in different creatures. Dec.99
• Worm dissection May.96
• The earthworm: Chaetae -  how to prepare the stiff bristles of the earthworm. Feb.01
• Monocystis - an illustrated look at this parasite of the earthworm, and how to prepare slides. Mar.99
• Mammalian hair - looking at hair damage under the microscope May.97
• Classification of living things - an illustrated overview May.98
• Kingdoms come: And kingdoms go - musings on the literature of higher classification and the new phylogeny of microorganisms Oct.01
• A Strongylocentrotus drobrachiensis by any other name would smell as sweet - a humorous but challenging look at how scientists classify and name organisms. Or why the tiniest critters often seem to have the longest names! Jun.99
• Making a study of bat droppings - Apr.99
• Take a deep breath - a fascinating look at the different features which animals from Amoeba to man use to respire. Jan.00
• Of mites, nematodes and fungi Jul.00
• Tree holes Nov.00
• You found that in my what? - Food microscopy. Aug.01
• A debt to ponds Oct.01
• Life in thin air - the life forms found in the atmosphere Nov.01
• Troglodytes - the intriguing smaller fauna and flora that have adapted to cave life. Feb.02
• Microfauna of concrete blocks - even the most unlikely habitats have creatures that are worth studying under the microscope. Mar.02
• Some of my favorite things - some of the many marvels of nature to study at the macroscopic and microscopic level. Apr.02
• The north-south divide - a look at the macroscopic flora on a north-facing house roof contrasted with the lack of flora on the southerly aspect. Apr.02
• Biodiversity Sep.02
• Rain Forest - fascinating experiences of a naturalist when visiting rain forests to collect smaller arthropods. Nov.02
• Who's in charge here? - how very 'simple' organisms can produce complex structures and exhibit complicated behaviour; sea urchins and some protozoa are used as examples. Dec.02
• How to scientifically photograph archeological remains of Homo sapiens Nov.04
• Leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) Nov.04
• Hair through the microscope Nov.04
• Chicken embryo (sequential photography through its development)
• Feeder mouse (Rattus norvegicus)
• Red-tail Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor constrictor) Nov.04
• An overview of bacteria - an illustrated introduction to bacteria with simple but safe way of studying a selection of types. Jan.05
• Observations on a common cold - interesting ciliates in nasal secretions! May.05
• Microscopic fauna - some lifestyles. Part I - first of a series of illustrated articles, looks at examples of microscopic organisms that are not free living, e.g. those that are epiphytic, epizoic, parasitic, commensal, symbionts etc. Jun.05
• Microscopic fauna; some lifestyles. Part 2. The cockroach as a host - an illustrated look at a cockroach and simple dissection techniques as a prelude to studying its internal parasites. Jul.05
• Microscopic fauna some lifestyles: Part 3. Endocommensals of the cockroach Periplaneta americana - how to dissect a cockroach with examples of the microfauna found in the digestive system of two specimens. Aug.05
• Microscopic fauna. Some lifestyles, part 4 - the intestinal parasites of an American cockroach describing the oxyurid nematodes. Sep.05
• Microscopic fauna. Some lifestyles, part 5 - the intestinal parasites of an American cockroach describing the fascinating structure and lifecycle of the oxyurid nematode Hammerschmidtiella diesingi. Oct.05
• Sex scandals in the ponds and oceans: Part I. Or hey, buddy, you want to buy some pond scum? - fascinating aspects of the reproductive behaviour of microscopic organisms. Apr.07
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• Molluscs and shells
• Samworth's Snippets - swan mussel larva Mar.97
• Photomicrograph of a swan mussel larvae Update on previous article Jun.97
• Micscape image gallery - a colourful image of the palate of Haliotis, a type of mollusc. Dec.98
• The Castle of Ambras and the smaller shells found in it's grounds. Jun.99
• The 'Rockers' and 'wallers' - a look at some of the attractive smaller landshells that inhabit rocky habitats or live on walls. Aug.99
• Freshwater shells - a look at some of the attractive shells large and small that inhabit freshwater. Sep.99
• Landshell image gallery - a further look at some species of smaller shells. Oct.99
• Landshell image gallery - the final gallery in the series showing some of the fascinating species of smaller shells that can be found. Dec.99
• Snail's teeth, spicules and other bizarre delights: Or beauty is in the eye of the beholder Sep.01
• Microscopic structure of a slug's foot and slime secretion Nov.01
• Image gallery: Terrestial slug, thin tissue sections Oct.03
• Ammonites in 3D – Anaglyphs for the stereographic analysis of Mesozoic ammonites - illustrated article on the attractive variety of forms of these fossils. Sep.05
• Fossil shells of marine gastropods and bivalves from the Paratethys - a selection of the attractive sells found in sand pits near Vienna and gives an insight as to why they are found so far from our current seas. Oct.05
• The 3D-effect in photomicrography – Anaglyphs of recent tropical gastropod shells Nov.05
  Gastropods shells in 3D - anaglyphs of selected freshwater gastropods Mar.07
• The development of Physella, a freshwater snail. Part 1 Aug.07
  The development of Physella, a freshwater snail. Part 2 - the second part of his study of the snail's development. Includes animations. Sep.07
• Neophyte explores Pliocene shells - the fascinating fossil organisms found in the debris within larger shells. Apr.08
•  
• Micropalaeontology
• The examination of micro- and nannofossils using cellulose lacquer peel techniques- micropaleontology plays an important role in seeking out early life on earth. The first in a series of four articles. Feb.99
• Staining and other methods for enhancing the observation of cellulose lacquer peels - part two of a series looking at the use of peels to study microfossils and nannofossils in rocks. Mar.99
• Some of the types of nannofossils and microfossils that occur in the Dorset mesozoic sediments - part three of a series looking at the use of lacquer peels to study minute fossils in rocks. Apr.99
• Microscopic fragments of Mesozoic conifer wood found in the Kimmeridge Clay and Purbeck sediments - the types of wood found in sediments can reveal an insight into the vegetation million of years ago. May.99
• Palynology - a microscopic view of the past - pollen, spores and plant fragments buried in sediments can reveal an insight into the climate and plant life millions of years ago. Dec.99
• Microfossil and nannofossil image gallery - some of the common forms that can be found in many rocks using a simple 'peel' technique. Oct.99
• Neophyte explores miocene - experiences of studying microfossils.

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Biographies / Obituaries

• John Benjamin Dancer Dec.95
• A brief look at two of Darwin's microscopes Jan.96
• Obituary: John N McArthur 1901 - 1996 a Aug.96
• Obituary: Frank St D Rowntree OBE 1928 - 1996 Jan.97
• H. N. Dixon M.A. F.L.S. - a biography of this famous authority and author on mosses. Jun.00
• The father of modern science and an unsung hero - Robert Hooke March.00
• Remembering Alzheimer: the man, the disease and the microscope - one hundred years later Sep.05
• Sigmund Freud’s microscope – on the 150th birthday anniversary of the histologist Oct.06
• Joseph Leidy and 'Fresh-water Rhizopods of North America' Oct.06
• F-V Raspail, the most revolutionary of all microscopists - illustrated overview of 'a man universally recognised as The Father of Histochemistry'.
• Syphilis and the microscope, a century long relationship Dec.07

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Botany - plant biology, flowering and non-flowering plants, fungi etc

 
• Plant biology
• Speaking of cells - introduction to plant and animal cells Sep.00
• Stomata - how plants 'breathe' Jun.96
• Plant adaptations - how do plants adapt to dry or wet habitats Aug.96
• How do non woody plants stay upright? - look at the cellular structures of a plant that provide the support. Oct.99
• Water movement through a plant Mar.00
• Plant hairs Mar.00
• Mitosis - an illustrated look at the stages of this form of cell division which can easily be seen in prepared sections eg. of plant roots. Aug.99
• Onion root mitosis Nov.04
• Rhizobial symbiosis - the microstructure of the nitrogen fixing nodules on plant roots. Feb. 01
• Symbiotic interaction and gall formation May.01
• A salty snippet - the effect of salt on onion cells, an easy 'on the microslide' experiment May.97
• Comparison of leaf epidermis in different species - a new use for nail varnish Jul.97
• Pollen tubes - this'll make your eyes water! - how to germinate pollen grains on onion skin and study the tube growth under the microscope. Dec.99
• Studying pollen Jul.99
• Video gallery: cyclosis (cytoplasmic streaming) in Canadian pondweed Nov.00
• Image Gallery: plant section in polarised light - Jan.00
• Image of the month - fascinating SEM photo's of parts of plants, courtesy of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Jan.99
• Aug. 98 Image of the Month - an SEM image showing the remarkable surface detail preserved in a very old leaf, check it out to see how old! Aug.98
• Tree rings - some features at both the macroscopic and microscopic level. Also use of the flat bed scanner for imaging tree rings. Jan.02
• Wood under the microscope - an illustrated introduction to studying these attractive subjects. Jul.07
• Spring flowers and pollen germination - an informative study of pollen germination for a wide range of spring flowers. The simple technique of germinating pollen on onion skins and ease of monitoring the results, offers plenty of scope for projects both for school students and microscopy enthusiasts. For readers with lower resolution (800x600 or less) and/or smaller screens, a no-frame version is available. Feb.02
• Plant sections in brightfield and polarised light - gallery of images of prepared slides. Aug03
• Image gallery: Botanical drawing - Christina Brodie (UK), a botanical artist, presents some of her excellent work in this image gallery of macro and microscopic subjects. Dec.02
• Image gallery: Botanical drawing II - Christina Brodie (UK), presents some of her stunning coloured macro drawings showing flowers from members of the daisy family. Jan.02
• Techniques for drawing botanical subjects under the microscope Feb.03
• How to milk a weed: looking at crystals in plant juices: part 1 - illustrated essay showing the attractive crystals that can be found in plant juices. Jul.06
• How to milk a weed, part II; looking at crystals in plant juices Aug.06
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• Flowering plants
• A flower garden of macroscopic delights - compilation of macro/microscopy of flowering plants started May.06
• Seasonal Berries A close-up look, plus their folklore. Dec. 96
• 'Micro flowers' - the attractive tinier flowers growing wild or in the garden are worth closer study. Aug.99
• Enjoying Spring in close-up - The plants and flowers we often take for granted take on a whole new perspective if they are studied more closely. Apr.99
• Digital macroscopy in spring with a flatbed scanner Apr.01
• Poppies - an attractive flower when viewed in close-up with plenty of features of interest. Sep.99
• Spring Narcissi and pollen germination Apr.00
• A macroscopic and microscopic tour around a common wild flower - the dandelion May.00
• A close-up view of the common wild flower chicory - exploring on the macroscopic and microscopic level a plant we often take for granted. The 'Cool light' LED ring light for the Coolpix digicam is used to good effect. Aug.03
• My favourite flower: the scarlet pimpernel -  exploring on the macroscopic scale the attractive features of an increasingly less common wild flower. Aug.03
• Goat's beard 'clock' - a common wild flower can provide many fascinating features on the macroscopic and microscopic scale. Oct.00
• A close-up view of the wild flower 'common teasel' - a macro and microscopic tour Oct.03
• A close-up view of the wildflower "New England aster" Dec.03
• A close-up view of the strange wildflower 'Viper's bugloss' (Echium vulgare) - a macro and micro explorations of this common but intriguing plant with a striking selection of images. Feb.04
• A close-up view of the wildflower 'Rose moss' (Portulaca pilosa) Apr.04
• Close-up view of two thistles: "Bull" and "Nodding" Jun.03
• A close-up view of the wild flower 'lesser burdock' Aug.04
• A close-up view of "common" and "great" ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia & Ambrosia trifida) Oct.04
• A close-up view of the 'beautiful invader' purple loosestrife Dec.04
• A close-up view of the unusual wildflower "common milkweed" Feb.05
• A close-up view of the bird's-nest weed Queen Anne's lace (Daucus carota) - Apr.05 Aptenia cordifolia. A short illustrated monograph. Part 2 - reproductive organs - W. Dioni (Mexico) shows how a household plant can be used to illustrate many botanical features with the aid of a homemade microtome (a 'mesotome', previously described).
• A close-up view of two forget-me-nots: "Field" and "True" - series which shows how common wild flowers can be fascinating to study at the macro and microscopic level. The tiny flowers are a particular challenge to photograph. Jun.05
• A close-up view of four beggar-ticks: "Devil's", "Tall", "Three-Parted" and "Nodding" Aug.05
• A close-up view of the wild flower 'plains coreopsis' - illustrating the macroscopy and microscopy opportunities of wild flowers. Oct.05
• A close-up view of the wildflower "motherwort" (Leonurus cardiaca) Nov.05.
• A close-up view of the pincushion Protea - macroscopy and microscopy opportunities with this attractive flower native to South Africa. Dec.05
• A close-up view of the wildflower "Common Mullein" (Verbascum thapsus) Feb.06
• A close-up view of three Ornithogalum flowers "Chincherinchee", "Snake Flower" & "Arab's Eyes" Feb.06
• A close-up view of the wildflower brown knapweed Mar.06
• A close-up view of wild cherry blossoms Apr.06
• A close up view of the fox-tail lily Apr.06
• A close-up view of the wild flower 'common lilac' May.06
• A close-up view of the wildflower 'red clover' Jun.06
• A close-up view of the 'Geraldton waxflower' Jun.06
• A close-up view of the wild flower 'sweet pea' Jul.06
• A close-up view of the 'African Blue Lily' Aug.06
• A close-up view of the 'Canadian Thistle' Aug.06
• A close-up view of two 'passion flowers' Sep.06
• A close-up view of the 'wild cucumber' Oct.06
• A close-up view of a member of 'cucurbits' Oct.06
• A close-up view of a member of three buttercups Nov.06
• A close-up view of two "parrot tulips" Part 1 Dec.06
• A close-up view of two "parrot tulips" Part 2 Dec.06
• A close-up view of several members of the cactus family Jan.07
• A close-up view of two members of the mallow family Feb.07
• A close-up view of the wildflower 'sulphur cinquefoil' Feb.07
• A close-up view of the Gerbera daisy Mar.07
• A close-up view of the daffodil Apr.07
• A close-up view of the hyacinth Apr.07
• A close-up view of the choke cherry May.07
• A close-up view of the 'unsightly weed' curly dock Jun.07
• A close-up view of the Hydrangea Jun.07
• A close-up view of the 'Staghorn Sumac' - a macro and microscopic tour of this attractive tree. Jul.07
• A close-up view of three extraodinarily small wild flowers Aug.07
• A close-up view of 'wood spurge' Aug.07
  A close-up view of the 'pussy willow' Sep.07
• A close-up view of eucalyptus tree flowers Oct.07
• A close-up view of a 'moth orchid' hybrid Nov.07
• A close-up view of 'tatarian honeysuckle' Dec.07
• A close-up view of 'fringed loosestrife' Dec.07
• A close-up view of columbine Jan.08
  A close-up view of two lilies Feb.08
• A close-up view of the 'English plantain' Feb.08
• A close-up view of the wildflower 'wild blue flax' Mar.08
• A close-up view of the 'Icelandic (Arctic) poppy' Mar.08
• A close-up view of a 'lupine hybrid' Apr.08
• A close-up view of the 'single-seed hawthorn' Apr.08
• Silver birch in autumn: a basic peep into small seed dispersal Nov.06
• Spring 2000 - a look at some of the attractive wild flowers around the author's North Wales, UK home. Jun.00
• Hungry utrics - an intriguing look at the bladderwort (Utricalia), a carnivorous freshwater plant. Mar.99
• Image gallery - leaf of the pond weed Myriophyllum (milfoil) - a stunning image taken with an apochromat. Dec.00
• Hooked on cleavers  Aug.01
• Some common garden seeds - an attractive gallery of seeds; an often overlooked but fascinating subject for the microscope. May.03
• More common garden seeds - a second attractive gallery of these often overlooked subjects and encourages the wider use of a hand lens. Jun.03
• Coccoloba uvifera. The leaves and a parasite - the sea grape tree explored. Jul.04
• Aptenia cordifolia. A small illustrated monograph - microstructure of this plant with the aid of a homemade botanical slicer and various lighting techniques. Aug.04
• Aptenia cordifolia. A short illustrated monograph. Part 2 - reproductive organs - how a household plant can be used to illustrate many botanical features with the aid of a homemade microtome (a 'mesotome', previously described). May.05
• Macro in the garden - taken with the Canon 350D digital SLR with close-up lenses and using small depth of field for creativity. Jun.05
• Micro-gardens - microscopic study opportunities of cultivated indoor plants. Feb.06
• The wounded tree - a fascinating illustrated 'peep at sapwood's attempts to cover a tree's injuries'. Apr.06
• Looking at a cactus with the QX5 microscope - shows the ease of use and versatility of this popular digital microscope with this exploration of a plant local to author. Aug.06
• Petals of a black-eyed susan - a microscopical exploration of this flower in search of the pigment cells. Sep.06
• Black-eyed Susan follow up Oct.06
• While it is still raining - an illustrated essay reflecting on the progress of flower development in his garden. Sep.06
• Colours of winter. Photographic wanderings - plant macros using limited depth of field taken with the Nikon D80 DSLR and 50mm lens with Nikon 4T achromatic close-up attachment. Dec.06
• Springtime in West Yorkshire - aspects of spring using the Nikon Coolpix 4500 and a DSLR with macro lens, both handheld. Apr.07
• The 'wood wreckers', part 1 - macroscopic tour of decaying wood showing the typical plants and animals that either colonise and/or use the wood as a food source. Dec.07
• The 'wood wreckers', part 2 Feb.08
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• Non-flowering plants and fungi
• Fern flora on a garden wall - look for ferns in your garden Oct.97
• The Rusty-backed fern - as autumn approaches, ferns are fascinating plants to study. Sep.98
• Alternation of generations in ferns May.00
• Micscape Image gallery I - attractively arranged fern scales. A topical subject for autumn; fern scales are easy to collect and study. Oct.98
• Sporangia of a fern Jan.02
• Life on the rocks - a peep at the world of lichens - the beauty of some lichens at the macroscopic level near the author's home in Wales. Jun.02
• Image gallery: A lichen in close-up Oct.03
• Mosses and liverworts - 'simple' plants ideal for the microscope Jul.98
• Tortula muralis - My first moss - a common moss species with many macro and microscopic features. Mar.03
• Horsetails: relic plants from prehistory - a common group of plants which are easily overlooked, but they have plenty of fascinating macro and microscopic features.Jun.99
• A closer look at mushrooms - a seasonal look with plenty of interest on the macroscopic and microscopic scale. Oct.98
• Moulds- are often found on decaying fruit etc. in the kitchen and worth studying. Jan.99
• I love fungi! - a look at the larger fungi with some macroscopic and microscopic features to look for. Jun.00
• Of mites, nematodes and fungi Jul.00
• Image gallery: Fungus foray Nov.01
• Mycorrhizas and symbiosis Jan.01
• Attractive but deadly - why some fungi are so poisonous, using three infamous examples. Jun.00
• From Lanzarote with love: Lichens on a volcanic island - a look at how lichens and other plants exist on barren volcanic islands. Mar.01
• Digital photography for the field mycologist - evaluation of the Nikon Coolpix 5000 Jun.03
• A backyard mini-project: Airborne fungi - collecting, culturing and studying this type of fungi. Apr.05
• Invisible gardens—the world of mould around us. Part 1: mouldy bread Jan.08
• Invisible gardens—the world of mould around us. Part 2: strawberries and wine Feb.08
•  

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Discoveries

 
• New Life Form: Symbion pandora Discovery of the Year! Jan.96
• Bryozoa A Mystery from the Antarctic - a floating Bryozoan new to science! Mar.96
• Nanobes- are these the smallest living organisms yet found? Apr.99
• Nanobes - an update on these new life forms that challenge our concept of how small living organisms can be. Dec.99
• Topical news: Microscopes to Mars - American and European Mars missions in June 2003 include specially designed microscopes as part of their respective surface probe's scientific instrument packages. A links page to a selection of web resources with particular reference to the microscopes. Jun.03

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General

 
• History, collecting, conservation
• Old catalogues and manuals Oct.96
• Catalogue and book browsing Aug.00
• A tantrum regarding microscopy books - comments on the high prices of many introductory and specialist books on microscopy and advice on searching out affordable examples. Sep.04
• A cabinet of curiosities: Purchasing preserved specimens - a look at the range of specimens available for purchase. Dec.00
• Samworth's Snippets History, size, algae and ink! Sep.96
• Samworth's Snippets Sperm shapes, snowflakes Feb.97
• Compressoria Keeping micro-organisms still Jul.97
• Taking a photomicrograph .... in 1904 - a few reflections Sep.97
• Cigarette and Tea cards - fascinating old sets depicting microscopic life. Aug.98
• How small can you write? Oct.96
• Conserving a microscope and slides - science and speculation from Australia Nov.00
• The first practical color photographic process Oct.01
• Microscopes listed in the Sears Roebuck catalog of 1897 Oct.01
• Cultural debris - the fascinating debris from old samples and cultures Nov.01
• Historical snippet: Medal awarded to the microscope maker C. Baker at the 'United Provinces Exhibition Allahabad 1910' Feb.04
• What did it cost then? An insight into the value of microscopes of the 1920's period - a look back at the price in relative terms of microscopes then and now. Aug.04
• An unexpected peek into nineteenth century microscopy - an insight into the life of the American lecturer and microscopist F M Kendall. Sep.04
• A drop of water - a delightful short story by Hans Christian Andersen translated from the Danish by René van Wezel (UK). Dec.04
• On old books and a bygone era - a celebration of the fine illustrations and writing style of Victorian books on microscopic life by sharing a selection of quotes and illustrations from the author's favourites. Feb.05
• 'The Rotifera or wheel animalcules' by C T Hudson and P Gosse - some of the stunning illustrations are presented in an overview of this famous book. May.05
• An annotated list of books from a North American microscopist's library - a valuable list of the author's favourite microscopy books with particular reference to the N. American fauna and flora. Feb.05
• Microscopy puzzle in an English church - a microscope depicted in a stained glass window dedicated to the Rev. Benjamin John Corder. Apr.05
• White on black: reverse ink drawings - an essay showing examples of the attractive plates from two volumes of The American Naturalist: A Popular Illustrated Magazine of Natural History. Sep.05
• A holiday essay: Micro-ornaments: A do-it-yourself kit - an illustrated gallery of festive ornaments made by photo-manipulating images of microscopic subjects. Dec.05
• An early evening front yard encounter - the author uses the opportunity of a porcupine visit to study its quills. Sep.06
• The Griffith Club microscope, 'A queen of grace and utility amongst microscopes' - an illustrated essay on this fascinating 19th century American microscope model. Jan.07
• A trip into the past: Part 1 - an affectionate look at the quirks of some 19th century American natural history magazines. Jan.07
• A trip into the past: Part 2 - a further affectionate look at the quirks of some 19th century American natural history magazines. Feb.07
  A trip into the past: part 3 - a further affectionate look at the quirks of some 19th century American natural history magazines. Mar.07
• A trip into the past: part 4 Apr.07
• A trip into the past: part 5 May.07
• A trip into the past: part 6 Jun.07
• A trip into the past: part 7 Jul.07
• A trip into the past: part 8 Aug.07
• Nineteenth century British microscopy and natural history: part 1 - an affectionate look at some past issues of British microscopy journals. Sep.07
• Nineteenth century British microscopy and natural history: Part 2 Nov.07
• Nineteenth century British microscopy and natural history: Part 3 Dec.07
• Nineteenth century British microscopy and natural history: Part 4 Mar.08
• An early Victorian microscope by Joseph Casartelli, Manchester - a magnificent microscope from a lesser known maker but with qualities comparable to the best makers of the period, the owner enjoys using the microscope as his sole microscope rather than just for display. Oct.07
• My microscope collection and library of the microscope Jan.08
• A diatomist's library - an extensive list of books old and new with some comments on their value to the hobbyist. Mar.08
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• Old slides
• Who made these slides Help with a mystery Nov. 96
• Victorian Microphotograph slides by Dancer and Suter Sep.96
• Image of the month Old microscope slides Feb.96
• Old slides have interesting tales to tell - a case example - an old slide prepared by a Thaddeus Up de Graff, US. Jul.99
• On samples, slides and ... surfing - using Internet resources to learn more about unfamiliar samples or slides for the microscope. Apr.00
• Victorian papered microscope slides - a look at some attractive slides over 100 years old prepared by R. H. Allen. Oct.99
• Samworth's Snippets Identify a microphotograph Jan. 97
• The investigation of a microscope slide - interpreting the clues on a 19th century slide 'Cizembra' of Foraminifera to learn more about the slide and its preparer. Jan.00
• 'Cizembra' by Henry F. Hailes 1827-1892. A closer look - an in-depth look at a fascinating slide of foraminifera prepared in the 19th century. Part 2 of above article. Jun.03
• A microscopical view of an old diatom circle pattern slide with 250+ diatom shells Apr.00
• An interesting 'micro-engineering' slide? a tiny ball bearing 1.5mm across? Mar.01
• Did Gage make these antique microscope slides? Apr.01
• Some unusual antique slide coverslips Oct.01
• Looking back - Campylodiscus by C M Topping - an attractive Victorian papered diatom slide made by one of the most famous slide mounters. Dec.02
• My favourite slides - famous mounters Topping, Norman and Moller. Apr.01
• Enjoying  old slides - some interesting old slides. Jan.02
• Enjoying old slides II - includes trials of CombineZ software to image some difficult to photograph thick specimens. Apr.03
• Looking back - Prehnite by M F Heddle - an attractive thin rock section slide prepared by a famous mineralogist / geologist. May.03
• The strange and the beautiful - a selection of images of prepared slides, including some of damaged and deteriorating slides to show how interesting images can be found in those imperfections. Mar.04
• A selection of Victorian papered microscope slides - slides made by some of the famous mounters. Apr.05
• Six Victorian whole mount insect slides; with notes on imaging methods - including using a 35 mm slide scanner Mar.06
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• Meetings, clubs
• Birth of a Microscope Club Postal Microscopical Society of Australia Dec. 96
• Microscopy UK at the Edinburgh Science Festival Apr.97
• Microscopy in Holland The Dutch Microscopy Society and its revival May.97
• Report on the 'Quekett Club' Midlands (UK) Meeting May.97
• The Quekett Microscopical Club's trip to Epping Forest - an interesting report of the Club's pond-dipping excursion in June 1998 with beautiful illustrations of some of the 'catch'. Aug.98
• Rendezvous at Renesse - British and Dutch amateur 'scopers meet up Nov.97
• Meeting of UK/Dutch microscopists - a UK perspective by Mol Smith. Spectacular use of latest web browser features. Only viewable in IE4.0 and Netscape 4.0 for the present. Jun.98
• Meeting of UK/Dutch microscopists - a Dutch perspective by Wim van Egmond. Illustrates the fascinating marine organisms collected. Jun.98
• 'Image grabbing' at Plymouth - a report of a meeting to show the 'grabbing' and manipulation of microscopy images. May.99
• Report: British Phycological Society Field Course in Freshwater Algae (Kindrogan, Scotland, August 2003) - with stunning drawngs Dec.03
• Nikon Small World competition, New York City, Sept. 2003 Jan.04
• Review of the 'Fabulous beasts' exhibition, Jerwood Gallery, Natural History Museum - artworks of greatly magnified natural subjects. The review includes interviews with the two artists whose work is featured. Jun.03
• The Microscope Historical Society and its journal Apr.06
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• People sharing their interests
• Diary of an encounter with a fellow microscopist - An Australian and New Zealander meet Sep.97
• The amateur microscopist. Some personal thoughts - views on the pleasures the microscopist enjoys from their hobby. Oct.05
• My microscopes - a 12 year old enthusiast shares her interest in microscopy Oct.97
• Snippet corner, where it all happens Mike Samworth's 'den' Jul.97
• Samworth's Snippets - Some of my microscopes Aug.97
• Illustrations of the close-up world by Lizzie Harper A talented new illustrator Jul.97
• Letters from Rio - a Brazilian amateur writes in Jul.97
• Microscope diary - some attractively illustrated pages from a diary of microscopy studies. Jul.99
• Microscope diary 2 - a further selection of some attractively illustrated pages from a diary of microscopy studies. Aug.99
• New microscopy diary pages - further observations and drawings of freshwater life. Sep.99
• A journey of 7 000 km to the North Cape, Norway - aspects of the fauna and flora in the wider context of the interesting places the traveller can see in this area. Aug.00
• Group portrait of microorganisms. Making an art work for the Natuurmuseum, Rotterdam - creating a stunning display of smaller aquatic life on glass panels. Delightful portraits of each organism are shown. Feb.02
• Articles written by students on the 'Principles and applications of photomacrography' course November 2004, Biomedical Photographic Communications (BPC) program at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), NY State, USA. Opens in new window.
• Macro on the move - photos and observations of the smaller fauna and flora encountered on a car journey across the western United States. Jun.05
• Macro on the move II - a second series of macro images and observations on a tour around two western states of the US. Aug.05
• Macro in the hedgerows. A light hearted essay on two recent photographic trips - how simple close up lenses on a standard 50mm lens can offer plenty of creative photo opportunities with a DSLR on a country walk. Aug.05
• A 10th Anniversary Tribute to Micscape: A Personal Gallery of Favorite Images Nov.05
• Ten years of Micscape - a time for reflection Nov.05
• An overview of the paintings of Christina Brodie (UK) - a preview selection of some striking paintings and drawings from her book out in 2006. Nov.05
• Spring and the magician May.06
  Neophyte emergence - a beginner sharing their enthusiasm for amateur microscopy as a hobby. Mar.07
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• Technology and general science
• Microscopy in the year 2000 - a look at how nanobots may impact on our lives in the next century.
• Nano-bots Miniature robots of the future Mar.97
• Multimedia microscopy - how do the multimedia encyclopaedias tackle microscopy and microscopic life? Dec.98
• A selection of images from the manmade and natural world - some unusual photomicrographs including the inside of a 486 chip and the data pits on a CD-ROM. Oct.02
• Image gallery: Plastic gauze under the microscope Oct.03
• Views through a mathematical microscope of some three-dimensional oddities Jan.06
• Micrometeorites keep 'a fallin' on my head Mar.06
  Mol's news, snippets and titbits - the first part of a new series looking at interesting news of technology and the microscopic world. Sep.07
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• Other
• Professional Microscopy. How to become a Pro..? Jan.96
• What's happening to biology teaching? Sep.96
• Dodo, extinct species - see also 'amateur microscopist' - the increasing difficulties of obtaining reagents and materials and the possible effect this may have on some areas of the hobby. Jan.04
• An anniversary: 100 months of Micscape magazine - the co-founder of Micscape and parent Microscopy-UK site owner/coordinator, shares his views on the venture's progress to date and discusses some interesting ideas for the future. Feb.04
• Microscopist's factfile Oct.96
• Microscopy on Stamps - illustrations of microscopes and collecting notes Jun.97
• Photomicrography on stamps - attractive examples are used to celebrate various events Jul.98
• Quotable quotes - Poems and quotes on a microscopical theme Aug.97
• A letter from 'The Times' newspaper 1895 - they don't publish letters on microscopical life anymore! Apr.98
• It's fun finding out - there's always something new to study and learn about, an amateur shares his enthusiasm. Aug.98
• Microscopy and art - using SEM images as inspiration for sculptures in school projects. Aug.99
• Tropical waves and volcanic ash microscopy Aug.01
• Image gallery: A walk in the fog with a Coolpix 4500 camera - attractive images taken on a foggy morning in the north of England countryside. Dec.02
• Image gallery: Monochrome days - images taken in the north of England countryside in Winter; a time of year when monochrome digital photos can work particularly well. Jan.02
• Image gallery: Stunning SEM images Feb.03
• Image gallery: Spring time colours in England - macro images taken on a Nikon Coolpix 4500 which reflect springtime in the north of England. Apr.03
• Landscapes and nature photography in West Yorkshire with the Fuji S2 Pro digital SLR Oct.03
• Autumn colours with the Fuji S2 and Nikon Coolpix 4500 digital cameras - photographs celebrating the colours and textures in the northern England countryside. Nov.03
  Winter colours from West Yorkshire - handheld high ISO images of early spring flowers in bloom using low depth of focus for effect and winter scenes. Mar.07
• A tale of three digicams - the pros and cons of three digicams ... from compact to diggie SLR, and finds that the most sophisticated digicam is not necessarily the preferred choice. Illustrated with a selection of landscape images. Jun.03
• Stone water troughs in the south Pennines landscape. Reflections on an attractive freshwater habitat - a distinctive landscape feature in the north of England, illustrated with typical examples. Jun.03
• Images from the south Pennines with the Canon Ixus 400 (Powershot S400) digicam Jul.04
• South Pennine landscapes - attractive nature and scenery around an upland reservoir. Aug.04
• Images of 'Constable country' Jul.04
• Help identify these microfossils - help sought on identifying a microfossil and microfossil fragment found in glacial peat samples. Sep.04
• Adding filters to small digital cameras - a simple adaptor made from e.g. a 35mm film canister can be used to safely mount filters on digicams with unthreaded lenses. Using the Canon Ixus 400 as an example. Sep.04
• Being innovative in microscopy - how a hobbyist became interested in microscopy and the pleasure of getting the most out of good basic equipment. Jan.05
• Spike's gallery - I. A selection of aquatic life - striking images in the first in a series of themed galleries. May.05
• Spike's gallery II - A second selection of stunning images by Spike Walker (UK); this month's theme is images taken using crossed polarisation filters and/or Rheinberg illumination.
• Spike's Gallery Part III. A selection of arthropod images Dec.07
• Snapshots of Jersey - impressions of western Jersey with attractive drawings of the flora and photographs of the scenery and geological aspects. May.05
• Reflections on symmetry in nature - an illustrated essay on aspects of symmetry in nature that fascinates the author. May.05
• Don't forget high ISO on your digital SLR Macros at high ISO. Jan.06
• Mystery object in honey pollen sample Feb.06
• The loupe, microscopes and the SEM. Getting to the heart of the matter in more ways than one Feb.06
• Buying at eBay. A basic guide for the newcomer Mar.06
• Croc the Ciliate and the Little Green Heart - a 'microbial fairy tale' for the young and young at heart. Aug.06
• e-Bah! Some virtues and vicissitudes of Internet auctions or confessions of an easy mark Oct.06
• A micro holiday gift catalogue - illustrated essay with a comical look at some presents from the microscopical world. Dec.06
• Macro ornaments: a supplement to last year's holiday gift catalog - a comical look at some presents from the microscopical world. Dec.07
• Questions to ask a creationist - an essay on aspects of this topic. Jan.07
• Questions to ask an Intelligent Design theorist Feb.07
• Miscellaneous gallery. A nondescript collection of oddments - interesting images from the macro and micro world. Jan.07
• Whimsies - an imaginative look at some fascinating subjects from the macro and micro world. Mar.07
• Old Lindley Moor - 'a photographic stroll about footpaths and fields' in the countryside near Huddersfield to show the value of short walks rather than long treks to fully appreciate the local flora and fauna. May.07
• Insight into the fascinating world of magmatic crystals. Light and electron microscopy of accessory zircon - an illustrated article on the features of this mineral. Jun.07
• Deserts - an illustrated essay on the appeal and ecology of deserts in the USA. Nov.07
• A macro-horoscope for 2008: A scientific exposition in character analysis Jan.08
• Another rant about the price of books Apr.08
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• Richard Howey's Bestiary Series:
• A crystalline herbal and bestiary: A journey to an alien world Part 1 - an illustrated fantasy where the author visits an alien planet with a local host describing its exotic fauna and flora. Feb.08
• A crystalline herbal and bestiary: A journey to an alien world Part 2 Mar.08
• A crystalline herbal and bestiary: A journey to an alien world Part 3 Apr.08

 

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Insects

 
• Lice and fleas
• Lice! Nov.96
• The 'crabs' - the crab louse and how it's designed for it's favourite 'home'!! Mar.98
• Insect insights: Flea circus! - a closer look at these itchy insects. Jun.98